Every spring, charming Easter markets pop up in cities throughout Europe, with some opening as early as three weeks before Easter. Like their more well-known Christmas counterparts, these markets offer beautiful handcrafted souvenirs, local culinary delights and sweet treats. Two of our wonderful Cruise Managers share their favorite Easter Market experiences and traditions to help inspire your next springtime river cruise.

Cruise Manager Martina, Czechoslovakia

Favorite Easter Market:

In Prague, Czech Republic, there are lovely markets with local food, handicrafts and colorful decorations representing the flowers of spring. There is also a stage on the main square with live performances. In Zurich, the Sechseläuten is a spring holiday typically celebrated on the 3rd Monday of April. There is an incredible promenade with people dressed in traditional guild costumes all over the city and lots of activities – including the burning of the Böögg, a snowman, to drive out winter and welcome spring!

Favorite Easter Delights:

The medovina (honey wine or mead) or the Tatranský čaj, a spirit of 160 proof. It is the perfect drink to have in the evenings, when the weather turns chilly while strolling around the Easter Markets of Prague. A must is at least one small beránek, an iced cake in the shape of a lamb, or chlebíčky, a small open-faced sandwich akin to tapas.

Best Souvenirs:

There are beautiful handmade decorations all over Prague. I love the traditionally painted Easter eggs and I always buy beautiful lace embroidery with colorful spring flowers for my friends.

Unique European Easter Tradition:

In former Czechoslovakia, today known as the Czech Republic and Slovakia, young men visit every house in which single young women live and “sprinkle” – or, in reality, douse – them with water, or playfully “whip” them with willow branches. This old custom is meant to bring good health and youth to the women throughout the year.